Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry confirmed that Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson will both compete for the starting quarterback position in 2026. Speaking at the NFL combine, Berry indicated no decision will be made until the team evaluates all options during the offseason program.

Sanders, the 144th overall pick in the 2025 draft, started the final seven games of last season with a 3-4 record but posted the fifth-lowest QBR (18.9) among quarterbacks with at least 200 attempts since 2006. Berry emphasized the need for Sanders to grow, particularly in efficiency and decision-making, while maintaining his ability to create explosive plays. Meanwhile, Watson, who has played in only 19 games since the Browns traded three first-round picks and gave him a fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022, is expected to remain on the roster despite his $80.7 million cap hit in 2026.

Berry also mentioned Dillon Gabriel, a 2025 third-round pick who started six games as a rookie, as part of the quarterback competition. The Browns are expected to explore the quarterback market this offseason, though Berry remained noncommittal about adding a veteran starter. With new coach Todd Monken installing his offense, the team will evaluate all three quarterbacks during the upcoming offseason program before making a final decision.